Basics of welding and types of welding machines:
When it comes to welding machines, it’s important to know what type of connection will work best in order to properly connect your torch. To make sure of this, you must first familiarize yourself with the basics of welding and the types of welding machines. Whether you’re new to TIG and MIG welding or a master fabricator, it can be difficult to discern among the wide variety of adapters and connectors. Additionally, manufacturers have taken advantage of inverter technology and produced a number of different designs for welding machines. The type of machine used depends on the specific welding technique.
Learn about TIG and MIG welding methods:
TIG and MIG welding are techniques that were invented in the 1940s to meet the growing demand for weaponry. TIG is mainly used in the aviation industry, while MIG welding was used to increase the speed of weapons production.
MIG vs. TIG welding:
TIG – tungsten inert gas welding
- Uses a tungsten electrode that is not consumed during the welding process
- Provides protection with a mixture of argon, hydrogen and a mixture of helium gas
- Best for use on materials like magnesium, aluminum, copper, alloys, stainless steel
MIG – metal inert gas welding
- One of the fastest welding processes available
- It uses a metal electrode that works as a filler material for the weld and is consumed during the process.
- Argon gas is used alone or combined with oxygen, carbon dioxide, or helium.
Advantages of TIG and MIG welding:
TIG welding produces better quality welds, produces less spatter, and has a lower disposal rate. It can also weld without filler metal and has more precise control of electrode heat. On the other hand, MIG welding is cheaper, easier to learn, better for home use, and requires less cleanup. In general, although MIG welding is much simpler, TIG welding produces higher quality welds.
Decide the type of connection you need to connect your torch:
Once you have a better idea of what type of welding machine you have, you can figure out what type of connection you need to connect your TIG torch. On older models, the torch is bolted to the machine with a threaded stud terminal. On newer welding machines, however, the DINSE style connector is used, which is a twist-lock quick disconnect. Dinse connectors come in small (9.5mm diameter plug) or large (12.7mm diameter plug) sizes. Some machines use what is known as a gas through Dinse connection, which means that the torch’s shielding gas supply flows directly through the Dinse connector. Another type of connector in common use is the Tweco type, or American-style split pin connector, which also rotates and locks into place.
In addition, you should also consider the type of TIG torch you have, as different torches have different adapter connections at the machine end. TIG torches are either water cooled or air cooled. It is recommended that you eventually upgrade your welder to accept a Dinse-style connector, which simplifies changing from one torch to another. For older style machines with threaded studs, use a Dinse stud to female converter to upgrade the connection. For machines with a Tweco-style connection, use an adapter that mounts on the machine to convert it to a Dinse-style plug.